
Queerlective and the Social Change Ecosystem in New Hampshire
Introduction to the Social Change Ecosystem: The Social Change Ecosystem Map, created by Deepa Iyer, helps individuals and organizations locate themselves in movements for justice. It identifies different roles that contribute to collective liberation, such as weavers, builders, storytellers, disruptors, healers, guides, frontline responders, visionaries, and caregivers. These roles are not static. People and groups may shift between them depending on context, capacity, and community needs.
Queerlective’s Role in the Ecosystem Queerlective sees itself as a multi-role contributor, with particular emphasis on the following roles:
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Weaver: We connect artists, activists, healers, educators, and neighbors across New Hampshire to build resilient networks of mutual support and shared purpose. Through our CoLab space, community events, and partnerships, we foster the connective tissue of the movement.
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Storyteller: Our work uplifts marginalized voices through art, zines, storytelling games, exhibitions, and public programming. We use creative expression to share experiences, challenge dominant narratives, and build empathy.
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Builder: Through strategic planning, program development, and infrastructure building, we lay the groundwork for a sustainable cultural movement. We support emerging organizers and grassroots groups by providing tools, resources, and mentorship.
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Healer / Caregiver: Queerlective prioritizes community care and healing justice. We create accessible, affirming spaces that acknowledge trauma, hold space for reflection, and practice collective care as core to liberation.
Context in the New Hampshire Ecosystem: New Hampshire’s social change ecosystem is often fragmented and under-resourced. Rural geography, conservative politics, and a lack of sustained funding make organizing challenging. Queerlective fills a critical gap by:
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Creating centralized spaces (like CoLab) where queer, BIPOC, and disabled people can gather, organize, and create
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Providing infrastructure (event support, marketing platforms, fiscal partnerships) for grassroots efforts to grow
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Collaborating across sectors with health equity advocates, educators, and artists
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Uplifting joy and creativity in a political landscape often dominated by crisis and resistance
We are committed to supporting frontline organizers, not replacing them. Our role is to help weave the web that holds them up.
Commitment to Movement Accountability: As an organization deeply embedded in the communities we serve, we recognize the responsibility of holding both power and proximity. We stay accountable by:
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Inviting feedback from community partners and members
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Being transparent about our roles, limits, and resources
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Redirecting support to those most directly impacted whenever possible
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Continuing to reflect on our position and adapt our strategies accordingly
Conclusion: Queerlective does not claim to be the center of the ecosystem, but we recognize our role in connecting, amplifying, and supporting the broader movement for justice in New Hampshire. We honor the many individuals and organizations doing the work and strive to be a reliable, imaginative, and joyful part of the whole.